OpenAI introduces Canvas for collaborative writing and coding

OpenAI has unveiled a new feature called Canvas as part of its “12 Days of OpenAI” announcements, enhancing how users interact with ChatGPT. Canvas introduces a side-by-side interface that allows users to work collaboratively with the AI in real-time, refining content or code with targeted feedback. This feature is aimed at fostering deeper collaboration and boosting creativity.

Kevin Weil, OpenAI’s Chief Product Officer, described Canvas as “a game-changer for how people interact with AI,” highlighting its potential to unlock new creative possibilities. Canvas is available to all ChatGPT users on the GPT-4 model, including Free, Plus, and Pro users, though access for free users is limited. The feature can be accessed via the web and the ChatGPT desktop app for Windows.

Canvas enables a dynamic editing environment where users and ChatGPT can work simultaneously on documents or code. When users input substantial text, ChatGPT offers a “Canvas” button for in-depth feedback, much like an editor or professor. The AI provides detailed comments, helping users refine their essays or debug programming code. The feature also supports creative projects, as demonstrated by OpenAI engineers who used it to write a children’s Christmas story with emojis for added fun.

Integrated with custom GPTs and accessible through shortcuts, Canvas streamlines interactions and improves productivity. It expands ChatGPT’s role from a content generator to an interactive collaborator, enhancing its utility across professional and creative domains.

This launch is part of a series of updates during OpenAI’s “12 Days of OpenAI.” Other announcements include ChatGPT Pro, a premium subscription plan for $200 per month, and the release of Sora Turbo, a video generative AI model, to Plus and Pro users. These initiatives showcase OpenAI’s commitment to advancing generative AI capabilities for a broad range of applications.